Math 5587      Elementary Partial Differential Equations       Fall, 2007

Professor Peter J. Olver
School of Mathematics
Institute of Technology
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, MN 55455
Vincent Hall 540
Phone: 612-624-5534
Fax: 612-626-2017
e-mail: olver@umn.edu
http://www.math.umn.edu/~olver
Lectures:    T, Th 4:45-6:00pm    
September 3-21:     Akerman Hall 319
After September 24:     Vincent Hall 6
Office Hours:   T 3:30-4:30, Th 1:15-2:30, or by appointment
Not available September 10-21


Course Description:   Math 5587-8 is a year course that introduces the basics of partial differential equations, guided by applications in physics and engineering. Both analytical and numerical solution techniques will be discussed.

Prerequisites: Strong background in linear algebra, multi-variable calculus and ordinary differential equations (2000 level). Some mathematical sophistication. Other topics will be introduced as needed. Basic familiarity with a programming language (Matlab or Mathematica preferrred) is required for numerical work.

Text:      The course will be based on the professor's typed lecture notes, which are available online and at Alpha Print, 1407 4th St. SE, in Dinkytown, 612-379-8535.    I hope to cover at chapters 1-6 in the fall semester.

Supplementary Texts:


Homework:  

Hour Exams:   There will be two midterm exams. Make-up exams will only be given in exceptional circumstances, and then only when notice is given to me before hand and a suitable written excuse forthcoming.

First Midterm:    Tuesday, October 16: will cover chapters 1, 2, and the material from McOwen.

Second Midterm:    Thursday, November 29: will cover chapters 3 & 4.

Final Exam:   Thursday, December 13, 4:45 - 6:45. In the usual classroom: Vincent Hall 6.

Grading:

Incompletes:   Only given in extreme circumstances, and only when the student has satisfactorily completed all but a small portion of the work in the course. Students must make prior arrangements with the professor well before the end of the quarter.

Grading Standards and Student Conduct:   Students are expected to be familiar with University of Minnesota policies on grading standards and student conduct, including the consequences for students who violate standards of academic honesty.


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